Ephesians chapter 3 is where I was reading today. As I read in verse 1 and again in verse 6, it struck me how big a change this would have been for the Israelites to deal with. It wasn't that long ago I was reading about Saul's being told to destroy all of a particular group of people. The history of the Israelites included a lot of reinforcement about their being a special and chosen people, as well as a fair number of "Saul" moments where they were directed to kill a bunch of other people because they "did evil" in God's sight. Now all of a sudden, they are being expected to accept the idea that non-Jews are now a part of their elite group - a part of their family. I can imagine what a challenge this would be!
So, what is the message for me to day? Perhaps I also can't cling to hard and fast rules about what I should be doing - especially in my relationships. I need to be open for what feels like 180 degree changes in direction. The picture that comes to mind is that of mountain switchbacks. Sometimes the easiest way to go forward (especially when forward is also upward) is to make serious changes in direction - like switchbacks.
So, when I find myself being expected to make a 180 degree turn in life (as I'm seeing in a specific relationship in my life at the moment), I need to understand that I am not being asked to go backward - back to old behaviors and experiences - but that instead I may be moving upward to the next level!
Thank you, Father! I love this picture. Please help me be more willing to accept my path in life with good grace - even when it's a 180 degree turn! May I remember that when I feel like I'm going backwards, it may just be the time I'm actually taking a big leap upwards! Thank you, God.
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This blog is simply a sharing of my "daily bread" - my daily walk with God. If something I've said has touched your heart, or sparked a new thought, I'd love to hear from you.